Subaru and Toyota Engines SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTING: Is Yours Next?

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Subaru and Toyota, alleging that the two automotive giants knowingly used a subpar sealing method in certain engine models, resulting in a heightened risk of engine damage and even catastrophic failure.

The lawsuit specifically targets the Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S, and Toyota 86 and GR86 models, which share a common engine design. According to the complaint, instead of using traditional gaskets to seal the engine's head and block, the manufacturers opted to use a type of adhesive known as Room Temperature Vulcanization (RTV). The plaintiffs claim that this design choice is the root cause of the engine issues.

RTV is a type of sealant that is commonly used in various industrial applications. However, it is not typically used as a replacement for traditional gaskets in engine design. The lawsuit alleges that the use of RTV in these engine models was a cost-cutting measure that compromised the engine's durability and overall performance.

Owners of the affected vehicles have reported a range of issues, from overheating and oil leaks to complete engine failure. In some cases, the engine damage has been so severe that it has required expensive repairs or even replacement.

The lawsuit seeks damages on behalf of the affected owners, as well as a recall of the impacted vehicles. The plaintiffs are also seeking a court order that would force the manufacturers to modify the engine design to prevent similar issues in the future.

Neither Subaru nor Toyota has commented publicly on the lawsuit. However, the companies have faced similar allegations in the past, with some owners reporting engine issues that they attribute to the use of RTV.

The use of RTV in engine design has raised concerns among mechanics and automotive experts, who point out that the adhesive is not suitable for high-temperature applications. The lawsuit highlights the potential risks of using subpar materials in critical engine components, and the need for manufacturers to prioritize durability and performance in their design choices.

As the lawsuit works its way through the courts, owners of the affected vehicles are advised to keep a close eye on their engine's performance and to seek immediate attention if they experience any issues. The case has sparked renewed debate about the importance of safety and quality in automotive design, and the need for manufacturers to be transparent about their design choices.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not commented on the lawsuit. However, the agency has previously investigated reports of engine issues in the affected models, and has encouraged owners to report any concerns or incidents.